More than 50 community projects in the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) are set to share in $60 million worth of grants from the New South Wales Government before major construction on the REZ kicks off.
The 54 projects will see upgrades to key worker housing, critical water infrastructure, training programs, preschools, health services and more. They will boost sport, cultural events and tourism, and upgrade halls and sports grounds that communities use to come together.
The New South Wales Government said it is delivering this investment now to ensure communities including Dubbo, Dunedoo, Gilgandra, Gulgong, Mudgee and Wellington see the benefits from the REZ in their region before major construction starts.
The grants include $11.25 million for each of the four councils hosting the REZ, for legacy infrastructure projects:
- Mid-Western Regional Council will build affordable housing in Mudgee for key workers and complete civil works that pave the way for additional homes
- Warrumbungle Shire Council and Upper Hunter Shire Council will upgrade critical water infrastructure
- Dubbo Regional Council will build the Renewable Energy Awareness and Career Training (REACT) Centre, which will enable locals to secure renewable energy jobs
Community groups will use the grants to build or improve local facilities. The dozens of successful projects include:
- Fitting out a new classroom at Dunedoo Pre-School Kindergarten with a Therapy Room and specialised equipment to provide health services, inclusion and early education
- Upgrading the Community Hall in Leadville, improving the kitchen, stage area, heating and lighting to increase useability and comfort
- Adding shade sails to each end of Coolah Swimming Pool and providing equipment such as lane ropes to Dunedoo Amateur Swimming Club
- Helping Dunedoo Sports Club add floodlighting to 2.6ha of community and sporting space
- Funding the Woolly Conversations program to promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention in the shearing and wool community
- Supporting the Dubbo Waratahs Sports Aboriginal Corporation to host the Dubbo Rugby League Knockout Carnival
- Upgrading facilities at Wellington Showground
It is the first round of grants under the New South Wales Government’s initial $128 million Community and Employment Benefit Program, which is being delivered as the Central-West Orana REZ is rolled out.
The State Government said that due to overwhelming community interest and quality applications, it will extend the first round, with more projects soon to be announced.
The New South Wales Government also said more funding will be made available over years to come from access fees, which will be paid by the owners of renewable energy projects that are connected to the REZ network.
